Travel Deal of the Day (Dec. 27, 2006)

Rental car rates have been going up - way up. If you need to rent a car over the next few months, you may find that rates are a lot higher than you have been used to over the past few years. There are some ways to avoid paying outrageous rates - try renting a car at a non-airport, local location.

The Deal:
Save money renting your next car by renting at a local location as opposed to the airport.

How:
Hertz is offering 50% off of fullsize through midsize SUV car rentals if you rent at a local/non-airport location. This offer is available at: Hertz Deal

The Inside Scoop:
1) Local/non-airport locations are not always cheaper than airport locations - you must compare the rates. But when you find airport rates to be outrageous, it pays to check the rates at local locations.

2) You may find great rates at local car rental locations on weekends when demand from business-related renters is low.

3) Many local locations will either provide you transportation to their location or will reimburse reasonable cab expenses - inquire with the car rental location at the time of booking to find out what the car rental company offers.